Next Minnesota Stop For Dunkin’ Donuts — Duluth

A doughnut from a Dunkin' Donuts restaurant is seen September 27, 2006 in New York City. The city health department is considering a ban on artificial trans fatty acids in the city's restaurants.(credit: Chris Hondros/Getty Images)

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — First Rochester, now Duluth. The city at the point of Lake Superior is earmarked to be the next location for Dunkin’ Donuts in Minnesota.

The first new Minnesota store opened at the Kahler Grand Hotel at 15 First Ave. SW in Rochester last month.

Now, the company says that a couple with be developing seven franchise locations in Duluth, with the first set to open next spring.

Dunkin’ Donuts pointed out that franchise opportunities were still available throughout the rest of Minnesota, including the Twin Cities. Those who are interested in learning more can attend a franchising seminar at the Marriott Residence Inn in Edina this Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m.

Earlier this year, we reported that Steve Rafferty, senior director of U.S. franchising at Dunkin’ Brands, said his stores are confident they will compete and succeed in Minnesota.

Dunkin’ did explore returning to the Twin Cities a few years ago, but Rafferty says the timing wasn’t right. The expansion could reportedly also include the return of Baskin-Robbins Ice Cream stores to the state.